Shanmugam, from Tiruttani in Tamil Nadu, took a ₹5,000 loan in 2009 to fund his sister's wedding. He started working at a brick kiln to repay it but soon realized his debt grew to ₹19,000 with interest. His wife and children joined him, all trapped in harsh bonded labour conditions. They suffered long hours, little food, and no wages for some. Like Shanmugam, many in Tamil Nadu face bonded labour despite the 1976 Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act. The Act, which came into effect 50 years ago, aims to free workers from economic and physical exploitation. Since 1978, nearly 3 lakh bonded labourers have been rescued in India, with 120 rescued from Tamil Nadu in 2024-25. Yet, human rights activists say bonded labour continues, evolving into new forms in factories, construction sites, and more. Children like Dhanraj were kidnapped and held as bonded workers, losing years of education. Official efforts include monthly meetings led by District Collectors and a state Standard Operating Procedure since 2017 to speed rescue and legal processes. However, delays in court convictions and rehabilitation payouts remain a serious problem. Released victims often wait years for compensation and struggle to find work due to stigma. Activists call for stronger laws, better monitoring, coordinated government actions, and help desks at transit points to protect migrants. Tamil Nadu might eliminate up to 70% of bonded labour by 2030 with focused government effort. Meanwhile, former bonded labourers like Shanmugam have started small businesses and hire released workers to prevent others from suffering the same fate. The fight against bonded labour continues with hope but demands urgent action and justice.